parents, grandparents and great grandparents, i was horrified to hear the news of the tragedy in newtown, conn.. my sadness remains for those who lost children and loved ones in the quiet community that had its well-being of shattered through a terrible act of violence. like almost everyone i know, i am at a loss when a comes to making sense of such a horrible tragedy and the won't try to do so today. all i can do is offer my prayers and sympathies for those who lost children, friends and family members and the people of newtown. we believe families are each turn or, those who have lost loved ones will one day be reunited with them. that belief has helped me to cope with losses i have experienced over the years. i know nothing can relieve the pain of losing a child i hope this notion will bring the parents of those sweet innocent children some measure of comfort. once again, i offer my heartfelt prayers and sympathy, who have this study. mr. president, ask my friend to place an appropriately in the record. mr. president, i also want to pay tribute to a man i personally love, appreciated